The Extras

The novel uses Bombay and Bollywood as its backdrop. Ravan and Eddie come from ordinary circumstances but dream of extraordinary lives. Their journey brings them into contact with the glamour and difficulties of the entertainment world.

Kiran Nagarkar (1942–2019) was an acclaimed Indian writer who wrote in both Marathi and English.

His important works include:

• Ravan and Eddie

• Cuckold

• God's Little Soldier

• Seven Sixes Are Forty-three

His novel Cuckold won the Sahitya Akademi Award. His first novel, Saat Sakkam Trechalis, was originally written in Marathi and was later translated into English as Seven Sixes Are Forty-three.

The story revolves around Ravan and Eddie, who have been enemies since birth because of a complicated family feud. Despite this rivalry, their lives become increasingly connected.

Both grow up in Bombay and are fascinated by the world of movies, celebrity and fame. Ravan earns his living as a taxi driver, while Eddie works in the nightlife world as a bouncer and bartender. Their ordinary lives contrast sharply with their dreams of becoming successful and famous.